ADCET UDL Symposium: Art-Based Learning - A Creative Approach to Teaching Theory

In-person presentation

Theoretical models have traditionally been taught in the first, foundational year of the James Cook University Occupational Therapy course. It has been observed that learning these heavy theoretical concepts often felt overwhelming to students - some students struggled to sustain attention, others to process large volumes of text and many found it difficult to visualise how elements of each model fit together. Recognising that this knowledge is essential for becoming an Occupational Therapist, it was important to explore more engaging ways to teach this topic, so all students could fully participate, not just those suited to traditional academic approaches.

This period of exploration ultimately let to the development of the OT Models ‘Art Series’. Learner-centred and focusing on engagement, creativity and expression, the art series takes place over several weeks of teaching.  For each theoretical model, students are presented with a different art medium - clay, paint, collage and edible art.  The outcome has been a colourful and stimulating classroom with high levels of engagement. Here, creativity and play contribute to deeper learning. 

Direct student feedback indicates that having kinaesthetic, creative opportunities in class helped them to grasp ideas they had previously found frustrating or abstract. Alignment has also been identified with First Nations pedagogical framework for culturally responsive education, ‘8 Ways of Knowing’, which identifies visual and hands on approaches as key pathways to knowledge.

In line with UDL 3.0, the art series recognises that learners’ diverse identities and preferences are central to creating an inclusive educational environment. This presentation provided an overview of the ‘Art Series’, including preparation processes, a showcase of the art and a reflection on lessons learned along the way. 

Presenters

Annika Patmore (she/her) is an occupational therapist and lecturer at James Cook University. She spent over a decade in clinical practice before transitioning to academia in 2022. Her professional interest areas include sexuality and intimacy, healthy ageing and culturally responsive practice. Annika primarily teaches first year occupational therapy students and is committed to supporting students as they navigate the transition to university life, recognising that each student arrives with a different background, different needs and access to support.

(June 2026)